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Stop Being Just the Comms Person: How to Lead, Influence, and Build Trust without a Bigger Title (Yet)
Jeff Ebbing, director of marketing and communications at Southeastern Community College in Iowa, presented the webinar “Stop Being Just the Comms Person: How to Lead, Influence, and Build Trust without a Bigger Title (Yet)” on March 25, 2026, to members of the Mid-Illinois Communications Association and guests.
Apr 14 min read


News in a New Era: Connecting, Communicating and Caring in the Modern Media World
Journalists Dawn Sterling and Stacey Skrysak, television news anchors on NewsChannel 20 in Springfield, presented the Lunch & Learn program “News in a New Era: Connecting, Communicating and Caring in the Modern Media World” to members of the Mid-Illinois Communications Association and guests.
Mar 84 min read


The Centennial Celebration of Route 66
Casey Claypool, executive director of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway, presented the Lunch & Learn program “The Centennial Celebration of Route 66” to members of the Mid-Illinois Communications Association and guests. She discussed the 100th anniversary of Route 66, which is happening this year, and communications efforts related to the yearlong centennial celebration of the legendary road.
Feb 53 min read


The Signal in the Noise: Messaging that Cuts Through
Josh Hester, founder and executive producer of the Emmy Award-winning Storyteller Studios in Springfield, presented “The Signal in the Noise: Messaging that Cuts Through.”
Nov 20, 20253 min read


AI for Communicators
Nearly 150 people gathered at the University of Illinois Springfield on Thursday, October 23, for the AI for Communicators daylong workshop. Featured speakers were Andy Crestodina , who made presentations in the morning and afternoon; Jenna Marble , who presented at lunch about AI as a graphic design tool; and Brianna Miller , who conducted an afternoon session designed for people interested in healthcare communications. Below is a synopsis of what each speaker had to say. Fu
Nov 1, 20255 min read


Community Marketing and Branding in Economic Growth
Ryan McCrady and Shelley Tulo from the Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance (SSGA) presented on community marketing, why branding is essential and the Thrive in SPI campaign.
Apr 28, 20253 min read


Building Connections: Pro Tips from the Springfield Lucky Horseshoes
Jamie Toole of the Springfield Lucky Horseshoes baseball org. presented insights on making connections – not just how but why it matters!
Feb 16, 20253 min read


Enhancing Marketing Strategies with AI: A Path to Greater Impact
Members, log in and view the presentation Bonni Burns and Jordan Longhi of BAM Marketing Agency presented an eye-opening discussion on...
Feb 16, 20253 min read


Repositioning Soft Skills in Leadership: Insights from Dr. Ann Strahle
Dr. Ann Strahle, UIS, delivered an insightful talk on the evolving role of soft skills in leadership.
Jan 20, 20252 min read


Communications Scholarship Now Open
The MICA communications scholarship is accepting applications through March 1.
Jan 16, 20251 min read


Tips for Better Speechwriting
Drawing upon his more than 30-year career in media and communications, John Patterson shared advice on the importance of preparation,...
Oct 18, 20243 min read


A Look Inside KIND Consulting and Marketing the SCHEELS Sports Park
When starting her consulting business in 2021, Sara Wojcicki Jimenez, founder of KIND Consulting, wanted to get involved and help with proje
Oct 3, 20241 min read


Storytelling: Baseball is Our Platform, Not Our Purpose
Summary of presentation by Jamie Toole, Springfield Lucky Horseshoes, Friday, January 26. Jamie Toole, Chief Storyteller for the...
Feb 10, 20242 min read


What is ATS, and how is it affecting your search for a new job?
You spend hours perfecting your resume to customize it for the job you are applying for — but after all that work, you’re not getting ...
Oct 5, 20232 min read


Diversity and Inclusion in Communications
Summary of Presentation by Carla Kalogeridis By AWC member Patty Knepler “Tracking diversity in your communication is a vaccine against...
Oct 2, 20232 min read


How to Give a Ted Talk
Summary of Presentation: How to Give and Engaging TED Talk with Rikeesha Phelon, Communications Strategist By AWC member Patty Knepler...
Oct 1, 20222 min read
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